Governor Tony Evers recently kicked off June Dairy Month by celebrating Wisconsin’s dairy farmers, producers, processors, and the state’s long-standing identity as “America’s Dairyland.”
In a weekly radio address and video message, Evers thanked the people who keep Wisconsin’s dairy industry moving and highlighted state efforts to support farmers and agricultural businesses. Throughout June, the governor is scheduled to visit dairy farmers, processors, producers, and agricultural industry leaders across the state.
Wisconsin’s dairy industry remains one of the state’s most important economic drivers. According to the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, the state is home to about 5,000 dairy farms, more than any other state, and 1.27 million dairy cows. The dairy industry contributes $52.8 billion to Wisconsin’s economy each year.
Evers said his administration has worked over the past seven years to support the dairy industry through investments in research, exports, rural infrastructure, dairy processor grants, and farmer mental health resources.
Those efforts have included support for the Dairy Innovation Hub and Center for Dairy Research at UW-Madison, the Wisconsin Initiative for Agricultural Exports, the Agricultural Roads Improvement Program, and DATCP’s Farmer Wellness Program through the Wisconsin Farm Center.
The governor also pointed to funding included in the 2025-27 state budget, including continued support for agricultural exports, $150 million for rural road improvements, funding for dairy and agriculture resilience, food security programs, dairy and meat processor grants, and farmer mental health services.
Evers said farmers continue to face challenges from rising costs, trade uncertainty, federal program changes, and unpredictable weather. He said the state will continue working to support farmers, producers, and processors so Wisconsin remains a leader in dairy.
June Dairy Month is also a chance for residents to support local farms and food producers. Evers encouraged Wisconsinites to celebrate by buying Wisconsin-made dairy products, including milk, cheese, ice cream, and cheese curds.
Wisconsin produced 3.64 billion pounds of cheese in 2025, with nearly 1,200 licensed cheesemakers producing more than 600 types, styles, and varieties.
